Dylan Efron captivated audiences on Dancing with the Stars‘ “Dedication Night,” performing a poignant contemporary routine with his 5-year-old sister, Olivia, and honoring his elder brother, Zac, with a powerful rendition of “Rewrite the Stars” that earned the season’s highest score.
The ballroom of Dancing with the Stars was filled with emotion on October 14, 2025, as contestant Dylan Efron delivered a performance that resonated deeply with judges and fans alike. Known for stepping out of his comfort zone, Dylan used “Dedication Night” to pay tribute to the two siblings closest to his heart: his elder brother, Zac Efron, and his youngest sister, Olivia Efron.
Joined by professional partner Daniella Karagach and, notably, his spirited 5-year-old sister Olivia, Dylan danced to “Rewrite the Stars” from the cinematic hit The Greatest Showman, a song originally performed by Zac and Zendaya. This poignant choice underscored a performance that was as much a family affair as it was a display of dance prowess.
A Sibling Bond Transcending Generations
Dylan, 33, spoke candidly about his relationship with both Zac, 37, and Olivia, highlighting the profound impact they’ve had on his life. He revealed that Zac had “always taken care” of him, instilling in Dylan a desire to pass on that same level of support and mentorship to Olivia. “It feels like I’m passing it on,” Dylan shared in an interview with Extra after the performance.
The bond with Olivia, despite their significant age gap, proved to be an unexpected joy for Dylan. He confessed that he never imagined developing such a strong connection with her, but Olivia quickly became “everything” to him, making them “inseparable.” Dylan expressed his desire to be a role model for her, aiming to “show her to live her life with confidence.” Olivia, in turn, affectionately calls Dylan her “best friend” and admits she feels “free” when they’re together.
However, getting Olivia on stage wasn’t initially a smooth journey. Dylan shared with People that when he first asked her to join him, she “buried her head in my chest and was like, ‘No, there’s no way.'” It was only after witnessing the excitement of the first week of competition that Olivia warmed up to the idea, declaring she wasn’t afraid of anything.
The Performance: Grace, Emotion, and a Five-Year-Old Star
The contemporary routine began with Dylan gracefully twirling Olivia towards the main floor of the ballroom. He then lifted her in an impressive moment of tenderness and skill, before his pro partner Daniella Karagach joined the stage, allowing Olivia to briefly step to the side. As the dance neared its emotional climax, Olivia ran back onto the stage, embracing Dylan, a moment that garnered a massive round of applause from both the judges and the audience.
Disney/Eric McCandless
Dylan Efron and his little sister Olivia on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ on Oct. 14, 2025
Judges’ Praise and the Season’s Highest Score
The performance earned Dylan and Daniella an impressive 36 out of 40 points, marking it as the highest score of the night and, for some, the season thus far. The judges were particularly captivated by Olivia’s natural stage presence and Dylan’s heartfelt dedication.
- Bruno Tonioli declared, “The next greatest showman! And little Olivia, prima ballerina! I’m telling you, very well pointed, but listen — fantastic number.” He was especially impressed by Dylan’s effortless lifts, noting his performances kept getting “better and better.”
- Carrie Ann Inaba expressed a deep emotional connection, stating she “felt that story to the bottom of my soul.” She praised Olivia as “incredible,” and highlighted how “the hope and love you feel for her is infused in every step of this dance.”
- Derek Hough, a former contestant and host, lauded Dylan’s remarkable improvement since joining the series, especially given his non-dance background. He complimented Dylan’s overall character, remarking, “You’re a great guy, you’re in shape, you can dance, and you’re a great brother. Well done.”
- Guest judge Kym Johnson Herjavec also acknowledged Dylan’s significant growth, observing that he was “improving and becoming such a great dancer.”
Dedication Night concluded on a high note, with no contestants being eliminated, allowing Dylan and all remaining participants to advance to the next stage, “Wicked Night.” The Efron siblings’ performance stood out as a powerful testament to family love and the inspiring journey of growth on the dance floor.
